Peregrine Falcon Exhibit

Freyja the Gyrfalcon occupies this exhibit as her winter throne. As the largest falcon species, the Gyrfalcon makes its home in the arctic in the summer breeding season as well as during the cold dark winters. Thanks to her waterproof outer feathers and fluffy down, Freyja enjoys the cold brisk winter winds. When she isn’t inside her enclosure, she enjoys a walk around the interpretive center meeting guests and getting in a quick workout with her trainers. Freyja hatched in 2024 and is therefore still in her juvenile plumage. Check in with Freyja next summer to see if her brown feathers will turn black, gray, or white!

The Peregrine Fund has been monitoring Gyrfalcons in the arctic for over 30 years and falconers have been hunting with Gyrfalcons for thousands of years. This traditional and scientific relationship brings people together from around the world to study and protect this iconic arctic species.

The story of the Peregrine Falcon recovery started with an observation. Something was happening in the nest that was preventing Peregrines from raising young. Biologists and falconers documented this phenomenon and came up with a hypothesis that, when tested, lead to the recovery of the Peregrine. Start your visit to The Peregrine Fund by using your observation skills. Take a look at the eggs in the back corner of the exhibit. Some rock climbing may be required. See if you can notice what lead biologists to be greatly concerned about the welfare of the species.

The outdoor Peregrine Falcon exhibit at the World Center for Birds of Prey will be home to a rotating cast of Peregrine Falcons. The exhibit offers viewers a peek into a falcon eyrie and a chance to hone their climbing and observation skills.

Learn about their decline, recovery, and life history as you Explore Raptors with us!